"I wouldn't dream of telling the manager who I have to play with," Xavi emphasized to Spanish television channel Cuatro. "I've never done it, and never will as long as I live. Everyone has a voice here, and no one is above anyone else.

"We always speak with the gaffer about what's best for the team, but not about who should play. Never about that."

La Roja are currently preparing to face Brazil in the Confederations Cup final at the Maracana on Sunday. Del Bosque's men go into the game after beating Italy 7-6 on penalties, and the tournament host dispatched Uruguay 2-1.